OTIS & PEANUT

Changes large and small are approached sensitively in this graphic novel for evolving readers.

In the lightest of the three stories, shaggy Otis, a long-haired guinea pig, is battling some fears about an upcoming haircut—it could hurt, itch, or turn Otis into a completely different critter! Otis’ naked mole rat pal, Peanut, doesn’t want to force Otis to chop their mop, but since they both came all this way, Peanut proceeds to make some changes to their look instead, buying a new hat, coat, and pair of shoes. The style evolution is so dramatic that Peanut muses that maybe the biggest change they could make would be to actually make a new friend. Otis knows just what to do: They get a haircut so they can be the new friend! This sweet and silly story is followed by a more emotional tale. After finding Otis swinging alone, Peanut listens compassionately while Otis grieves the loss of friend Pearl. Finally, Peanut helps Otis’ new house feel more like a home. Throughout the stories, the two friends work together to carve out a sense of belonging; like Frog and Toad or Elephant and Piggie, they’re sure to become reader favorites. Collier’s expressive, shaded black-and-white cartoon characters are complemented by a limited palette of hot pink, mustard yellow, grass green, and powder blue—a strong design choice that makes the story feel timeless and familiar.

A tender friendship story for the ages.